Amazon explores new delivery center plan in Prescott Valley with 350 potential jobs

The Planning & Zoning Commission of Prescott Valley convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding zoning changes and potential new business operations in the area. The meeting primarily focused on a proposed rezone of a 100-acre parcel, which could transition from its current designation to an Industrial General (IG) zoning category.

The discussion began with concerns about the implications of the zoning change. One commissioner highlighted that while the immediate plan is for a distribution center, the broader IG category could allow for various industrial uses, including manufacturing. This raised apprehensions about the potential for large-scale industrial developments, such as concrete or bottle manufacturing facilities, which were not originally intended for the site.

Another commissioner expressed support for the IG designation, emphasizing its potential to attract complementary businesses while assuring that any future developments would still require review by the commission and town council. This process would serve as a safeguard against undesirable industrial activities.

A key point of the meeting was the introduction of Amazon as a potential tenant for the proposed distribution center. A representative from Amazon, Humberto Quintana, clarified that while discussions are in preliminary stages, the facility could create approximately 350 jobs, including both warehouse associates and delivery service partners. This would represent a significant increase from their current facility, which employs around 200 people.

Quintana explained that the new site would function as a last-mile delivery station, designed to streamline package distribution to local residents. He noted that the facility would operate with staggered shifts to minimize traffic impact during peak hours. Additionally, the center would house frequently used products to enhance delivery efficiency.

Concerns were raised about the local job market, particularly regarding the availability of qualified candidates for delivery positions. Quintana assured the commission that Amazon conducts thorough analyses of local workforce conditions to ensure adequate staffing.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on utility summaries related to the proposed development, indicating that further planning and implementation details would be forthcoming.

Overall, the commission's discussions highlighted the balance between fostering economic growth through new industrial opportunities and addressing community concerns about the nature and scale of potential developments. The next steps will involve continued evaluation of the zoning changes and the implications for Prescott Valley's future.